Yerba

Croton ovalifolius

Native to:
Argentina, Aruba, Bolivia, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Honduras, Jamaica, Leeward Is., Mexico, Netherlands Antilles, Paraguay, Puerto Rico, United States, Venezuelan Antilles, Virgin Islands

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Taxonomy

Division:
Magnoliophyta | - Flowering plants
Family:
Euphorbiaceae
Genus:
Croton
Species:
Croton ovalifolius
USDA Symbol:
CROV

Growth Characteristics

Life Cycle:
Perennial
Growth Habit:
Shrub , Subshrub
Height:
100 cm
Light Requirements:
Full Sun,Part Shade
Drought Tolerance:
High
Bloom Months:
mar,apr,may,jun,jul,aug,sep,oct
Bloom Colors:
yellow, green
Landscaping Shrub:
Yes

Garden & Ecology Notes

Wildlife Value:
birds, small mammals
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Fire Ecology:
Fire adapted — tolerates or benefits from fire
Fire Notes:
Resprouts from root crown following fire; adapted to fire-maintained scrub and coastal habitats.

Soil Requirements

Soil Type:
sandy, well-drained, nutrient-poor soil
pH:
5.5 - 7.0 (slightly acidic to neutral)
Drainage:
excellent drainage required
Moisture:
dry to moderate
Notes:
thrives in open, sunny locations